WASHINGTON, Feb 14 (AFP) - The White House predicted Monday that Iraq's new government would be "inclusive and representative" as it downplayed concerns about potentially growing Iranian influence over its neighbor.
Spokesman Scott McClellan dismissed talk that the Shiite electoral victory in Iraq would increase Iran's sway and could set the stage for increased tension between Tehran and Washington.
"Iraqi leaders have shown that they're committed to a government that is inclusive and representative; and you've heard that from numerous leaders, including some of those who fared well in the elections," said McClellan.
McClellan quoted Finance Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi -- widely forecast to become prime minister -- as saying Iraq's new government would be neither Shiite nor Islamic.
"There's a lot of hard work ahead for the Iraqi people as they continue to move forward on the path to democracy," the spokesman said. "We're going to be there to support them as they move forward."
Savoring the prospect of the first Shiite-dominated government on its western border and a working relationship with Baghdad after years of enmity, Iran on Monday hailed the results of Iraq's elections.
But with many politicians close to Iran listed on the United Iraqi Alliance, Tehran was quick to stress the moderation of Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, the Iranian-born Shiite spiritual leader who sponsored the winning list.
02/14/2005 17:57 GMT - AFP